Introduction

Feta, green beans, and potatoes come together in this refreshing salad, creating a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe highlights the combination of creamy feta cheese with crunchy vegetables, making it a delightful addition to picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 pound of green beans, trimmed
– 1 pound of baby potatoes, halved or quartered
– 4 ounces of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)

Prep Time

The preparation time for this salad is approximately 15 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is about 20 minutes, making the total time approximately 35 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 to 6 servings, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy this flavorful salad as a main dish or a side!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Begin by placing the potatoes in a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Add the Green Beans

Once the potatoes are cooked, add the trimmed green beans to the pot. Boil the potatoes and green beans together for an additional 3-5 minutes until the beans are bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 3: Drain and Cool

Carefully drain the potatoes and green beans in a colander. Rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes and green beans. Crumble feta cheese over the top. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine everything evenly.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl. You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Notes

Note 1: Potato Variety

For the best texture, use waxy potatoes such as red or new potatoes, as they hold their shape well after cooking.

Note 2: Feta Cheese

Feel free to use either crumbled feta or feta blocks. If using blocks, cut into small cubes for a different presentation.

Note 3: Adjusting Ingredients

This recipe can be adjusted based on your preferences. Add more vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for added freshness.

Note 4: Storing Leftovers

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, the texture of the green beans may soften over time.

Cook techniques

Blanching

Blanching involves briefly boiling the green beans and then plunging them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This technique helps maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

Roasting

Roasting potatoes enhances their natural sweetness and results in a crispy exterior. This method involves cooking them in the oven until they are golden and tender.

Mixing

Carefully combining the ingredients in a large bowl allows the flavors to meld together without over-mixing, which can break down the ingredients and affect the texture.

Drizzling

Drizzling the dressing over the salad ensures even distribution of flavors, allowing each bite to be delicious without overwhelming the vegetables.

FAQ

Can I use different vegetables in this salad?

Yes, you can substitute or add other vegetables according to personal preference. Just ensure they are cooked to the appropriate texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within a few days.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep and can be made in batches for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

The Feta, Green Beans, and Potato Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish, perfect for gatherings or a nutritious meal on its own. Its combination of fresh ingredients not only offers great flavor but also provides a lovely presentation that makes it an appealing addition to any table. This salad is versatile and can easily adapt to personal tastes and seasonal ingredients.

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